The Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, has emerged as a potential venue for Ghana’s Black Stars’ remaining 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifying matches after the Confederation of African Football CAF rejected the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi. According to CAF, structural defects, flooding issues, and poor playing surfaces were among the reasons cited for rejecting Ghana’s stadiums.
Other stadiums under consideration include venues in Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco, such as the Japoma Stadium in Douala and Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny in Abidjan. The Ghanaian authorities are expected to finalize their choice in the coming days.
Editorial
The Godswill Akpabio Stadium’s selection as a potential host for Ghana’s AFCON matches highlights its reputation as one of Africa’s top sporting venues. The CAF rejection of the Baba Yara Stadium underscores the importance of maintaining high-quality facilities for international competitions. This situation presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to host Ghana’s games, further strengthening the sporting ties between the two nations.
With no approved venues in Ghana, the Ghana Football Association is now considering alternative locations for their crucial Matchday 3 and 4 ties in October. The Godswill Akpabio Stadium, with its modern facilities and lush playing surface, is a strong contender due to its proximity to Ghana and the cordial relations between the two countries.
For Ghana, choosing a venue with excellent facilities ensures their players can perform at their best. The decision will be crucial as they look to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON, and the Godswill Akpabio Stadium offers an ideal solution due to its proximity and world-class amenities.
Did You Know?
- The Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, also known as the Nest of Champions, has a seating capacity of 30,000.
- Due to structural and surface defects, CAF rejected all Ghanaian stadiums for international matches.
- The Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi has hosted many historic matches for the Black Stars but was deemed unsuitable by the CAF.
- The Godswill Akpabio Stadium regularly hosts Super Eagles matches and is considered one of the top stadiums in Africa.
- Ghana’s final choice of venue will play a key role in their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign.
